Stories from United States

Researchers have discovered that the human digestive system functions as a second brain by using the vagus nerve to communicate directly with the mind.

A survey by the National Center for Health Statistics shows people are using prescription medication, over-the-counter drugs, supplements, marijuana, or CBD to assist with sleep. The study, conducted in 2024, included results from more than 31,500 participants.

Analysts have increased the estimated combined AI spending for the four largest hyperscalers to approximately $725 billion for the year. This follows Alphabet's report of quarterly results indicating a willingness to increase investment to lead the AI race.

Google's CEO announced on Wednesday that Uber is expanding its service offerings to include more than 700,000 hotel listings directly within the app. The development follows a protest letter submitted by hundreds of employees. The company aims to position the rideshare platform as an app for various services. Uber is partnering with travel site Expedia to allow riders to book hotel rooms directly via the Uber app. Uber's CEO stated the updated platform aims to be an app for everything. The integration includes ride reminders and UberEATS room service options. The feature aims to reduce the number of steps required for travel planning. Users can access over 700,000 hotel listings through the service.

A father and daughter in New Jersey allegedly defrauded victims of at least $2 million using forged paintings. The scheme involved creating fake works attributed to artists such as Banksy and Picasso.

Illinois lawmakers abandoned a proposed constitutional amendment intended to protect redistricting in the state. The decision follows a 6-3 U.S. Supreme Court ruling that struck down a majority Black congressional district in Louisiana.

Prince George's County police are investigating a single-vehicle crash on Indian Head Highway and Palmer Road in Fort Washington. The male driver died at the scene of the accident. A passenger was transported to a hospital with serious but non-life-threatening injuries. Firefighters were required to extricate the victims from the vehicle. Investigators are currently working to determine the cause of the crash. Police confirmed the driver was male, though specific identity or condition was not immediately released. Prince George's County police are investigating a deadly crash that occurred late on Thursday night. Officers responded to a report involving a business on Livingston Road at approximately 10:00 PM. The investigation into the cause and circumstances of the crash is ongoing. The incident followed a reported theft involving two suspects who sped out of a parking lot.

Amazon Web Services reported sales of $37.6 billion during the most recent quarter. Microsoft reported 18% revenue growth and 20% profit growth during its recent earnings period. Meta reported an 8% decline in certain metrics as user numbers fluctuated.

OpenAI co-founder Greg Brockman is expected to testify today regarding the company's transition from its nonprofit roots. A lead lawyer for OpenAI has alleged the company has moved away from its original nonprofit mission.

The state of Texas is scheduled to execute death row inmate James Brodnack today. Brodnack was convicted of fatally shooting two people during a robbery 18 years ago. The shooting occurred outside a suburban Dallas music studio. Brodnack maintains he did not fire the fatal shots.